Monday, October 26, 2009

Day at Colonial Downs Race Track

We had the chance to spend the day at Colonial Downs Race Track today. It was great!This was the first time I have seen harness racing in person, and not on the television. I had the opportunity to participate in a charity race before the real races began. I couldn't believe that no one in my husband's company wanted to do it. So, I spoke up and said I did! Six other people from other company's also made up our race. We were just along for the ride, but it was great!!!They gave us helmets and tipperary vests for protection. I am wearing a green jacket and vest. My driver's name was Tyler, he was very nice to have me climb aboard! Our horse was Kelly's Traveling Man. He is a pacer, so it was interesting to watch him move.We were last out of the barn onto the track. The barn in on the opposite side of the track from the grandstand. We followed a truck with a gate attached to it, past the grandstand and to the far turn. We all made an about turn and got closer to the gate as the truck increased it's speed. We never really got close to the truck, still behind on the outside.All of the horses sped up and the race was on! We still were behind everyone. The driver "hissed" at the horse and boy, did he shift into gear! We suddenly were in the middle of the group and moving up! He hissed again, and again, the horse just shot forward! It was great!We Won!! What a great experience it was, I want to do it again!!